At this stage, there is no reason for such concern.

The proposed changes are real, but they are not yet in force.

As of 24 September 2026, Bill No. 2995 is still going through the Polish parliamentary process.

Importantly, under the current proposal, the main changes are expected to take effect 12 months after the final legislation is officially published.

In other words, yacht owners have time to assess the situation and consider their options.

What is expected to change?

In practical terms, Poland intends to make yacht registration for foreign owners more controlled, formal and expensive.

The proposed measures include an initial inspection for certain yachts before registration, confirmation of registration information every five years, and significantly higher registration fees for foreign-owned vessels.

The proposed fees are approximately PLN 2,000 (around €460) for yachts up to 15 metres and PLN 3,000 (around €690) for yachts between 15 and 24 metres.

There are additional provisions in the proposed legislation, but the general direction is clear: Polish registration is likely to become less straightforward and more expensive for foreign yacht owners.

If your yacht is already under the Polish flag

Our advice is simple: there is no need to rush into changing your flag.

Existing registrations are not suddenly becoming invalid. Owners should continue using their current registration and follow the legislative process.

Once the final version of the law is adopted, we will have a much clearer understanding of how the transitional provisions will apply to yachts that are already registered.

There is also no reason to assume that yacht owners will be left without alternatives.

The Polish flag became extremely popular because there is strong international demand for straightforward and reasonably priced yacht registration. If Poland makes its system substantially more restrictive, other jurisdictions and registration solutions are likely to respond to that demand.

The market rarely leaves such a large gap unfilled.

For owners who already have a Polish registration, the sensible approach is therefore to continue using it, monitor developments and calmly evaluate alternatives as they become available.

If you are registering a yacht now

This is where our approach would be different.

For a yacht requiring a new registration today, we would no longer consider the Polish flag as the first option.

This is not because Polish registration is about to stop working. It is not.

However, if we already know that substantial changes to the system are being prepared, there is little reason to enter that system now without first considering other jurisdictions.

For example, someone purchasing a 12-metre yacht in Greece today should compare several registration options, taking into account the initial cost, renewal requirements, eligibility of the owner, technical inspections and ongoing administrative costs.

A flag should not be selected simply because it has been the easiest or most popular option in recent years.

Our view as yacht brokers

For existing Polish-flagged yachts, there is no reason for panic or rushed decisions. There is time to follow the legislation and see which alternatives develop.

For buyers who are currently purchasing a yacht and need a new registration, we would recommend looking beyond Poland and comparing other available options from the beginning.

The legislation has not yet been finally adopted, the new requirements do not take effect tomorrow, and the current proposal provides a 12-month period following official publication before the main changes become effective.

The situation should be monitored, but there is plenty of time to make an informed decision.

Now the cycle is changing.

In the 2024/25 season, French shipyards built 1,019 multihulls compared with 1,354 monohulls. Yet multihulls generated €759 million – around 74% of total French sailing yacht industry revenue.

That works out at roughly €745,000 in revenue per multihull built, compared with about €195,000 per monohull.

It is easy to understand why shipyards invested so heavily in catamaran production.

But multihull production has now fallen by around 26%, while revenue is down 19%.

The downturn arrived later than it did for monohulls because manufacturers were protected by large order books. Shipyards continued building boats ordered one or two years earlier even as the number of new buyers was already declining.

Once those backlogs started disappearing, the slowdown became much more visible.

Fountaine Pajot is a good example. A revenue decline of around 13% was accompanied by EBITDA falling almost 50% and net profit by roughly two-thirds. Nautitech entered judicial restructuring proceedings in 2026.

But for owners, the more important story is what happens next on the used catamaran market.

Charter Created the Boom – and Is Now Creating Supply

Charter was one of the main drivers of catamaran growth.

The economics are straightforward. A 40-50 ft catamaran can accommodate more cabins, bathrooms and guests than a comparable monohull while retaining a large saloon and cockpit.

For charter companies, more guests mean more revenue from each boat.

This encouraged operators to buy large numbers of Lagoon, Bali, Fountaine Pajot and other production catamarans.

Now that mechanism is beginning to work in reverse.

Charter boats are normally replaced after several years of operation. A catamaran that originally created demand for a new boat eventually enters the second-hand market and becomes a cheaper competitor to newer boats.

And a significant wave of supply may still be ahead.

A catamaran delivered in 2021 will be six years old in 2027. A 2022 boat reaches the same age in 2028.

This means many boats sold during the peak years of the yacht boom are approaching the age when charter operators typically start replacing them.

New catamaran production is falling, while the supply of relatively young used catamarans could continue to increase.

What Does This Mean for Private Catamaran Sellers?

Don’t Value Your Boat by Asking Prices

Seeing five similar catamarans advertised for €500,000 does not mean your boat is worth €500,000.

Those boats may still be advertised precisely because buyers are unwilling to pay that price.

The important numbers are the prices at which boats actually sell, how long they remain on the market and how much sellers eventually negotiate.

In a slower market, asking price and market value can be very different numbers.

Time Can Work Against the Seller

Listing a boat high and waiting for the right buyer worked reasonably well when supply was limited and prices were rising.

That strategy becomes much more dangerous when inventory is increasing.

Your catamaran may have five comparable competitors today and fifteen next year. Some could be newer and some may come from charter operators motivated to sell quickly.

After spending 8-12 months on the market, an owner may eventually need to reduce the price further than if the boat had been realistically priced from the beginning.

“Never Chartered” Is Valuable – But It Isn’t Enough

Private ownership is becoming a genuine advantage.

But buyers are unlikely to pay a large premium simply because an advertisement says “never chartered.”

The difference needs to be visible and documented:

• lower engine hours;
• better interior condition;
• good sails and rigging;
• documented engine maintenance;
• invoices for upgrades;
• clear ownership and maintenance history;
• recent survey.

Don’t simply tell buyers that your boat is better than an ex-charter boat. Show them why.

A Recent Survey Can Help Sell the Boat

Traditionally, buyers arrange and pay for the survey.

In a market with increasing inventory, a recent independent survey can also become a powerful tool for the seller.

If a buyer is comparing three similar catamarans and only one has a recent survey, maintenance invoices and a transparent history, that boat becomes much easier to evaluate.

Removing uncertainty makes buying easier.

Presentation Matters More Than Before

When boats were difficult to find, buyers were willing to travel to inspect almost anything suitable.

With more choice, the first selection happens online.

Good photographs, a proper walkthrough video, detailed specifications, maintenance history and a clear description are no longer optional.

Poor photos, old information or “details on request” can mean the buyer simply opens the next listing.

Be Prepared to Negotiate

As inventory increases, the buyer gains negotiating power.

The asking price increasingly becomes the beginning of the conversation rather than the expected transaction price.

This is particularly important for mainstream 40-50 ft Lagoon, Bali and Fountaine Pajot models, where competition from ex-charter boats is likely to be strongest.

For Buyers, the Market Is Becoming More Interesting

Buyers are getting something that was difficult to find only a few years ago: choice.

More boats mean more opportunities to compare condition, equipment and price – and more room for negotiation.

But comparing boats also becomes more complicated.

Two Lagoon 42s from the same year can have completely different real values.

One may have spent five years with a private owner. Another may have completed six charter seasons and accumulated thousands of engine hours.

Online, they can look almost identical.

Economically, they are very different boats.

This is why the traditional formula of model + year = value is becoming less useful.

Condition, engine hours, ownership history, maintenance, equipment and survey results increasingly determine what an individual catamaran is actually worth.

Used Catamarans Are Also Competing With New Boats

There is another consequence.

Imagine a new 42-45 ft catamaran priced at €750,000 while a five-year-old equivalent is available for €450,000.

The shipyard now has to convince the buyer why the new boat is worth an additional €300,000.

During the shortage, that was relatively easy.

With growing used inventory, it becomes much harder.

Manufacturers are therefore increasingly competing not only with other shipyards but also with thousands of catamarans they themselves built during the boom.

The Market Hasn’t Disappeared – It Has Changed

Catamarans are not going away.

Their space, comfort, number of cabins and suitability for charter and long-term cruising continue to make them attractive boats.

What is disappearing is the assumption that prices and demand will automatically keep rising.

For private owners planning to sell in the next few years, the practical conclusion is simple:

Do not wait for the 2021-2022 market to return.

Price the boat realistically from the beginning. Prepare the maintenance records. Consider obtaining a recent survey. Invest in good photographs and video. Make the boat’s history transparent. And be prepared to negotiate when a serious buyer appears.

In a rising market, time works for the seller.

In a market with growing supply, time works for the buyer.

Work execution time:  8 days.

Cost: negotiable.

Work executed:

• Roller removal, roller restoration (straightening), anchor restoration (straightening).

Work execution time:

• 2 days

Cost:

• February 2025, €370

Buying your first sailboat is an exciting adventure, but it can feel overwhelming when you start comparing prices. Why is one used sailboat significantly more expensive than another? Understanding the key factors that affect a sailboat’s price will help you make a smart purchase and avoid costly surprises.

Let’s break it down.

1. Manufacturer, Year, and Model: What’s Behind the Name?

Not all sailboats are created equal. Some manufacturers are known for building reliable boats that stand the test of time, while others focus on luxury or racing performance. For example, brands like Beneteau and Jeanneau are popular for cruising, while Hallberg-Rassy is known for high-quality bluewater boats.

The age of the boat matters, too. Newer boats usually come with better technology and require less maintenance. However, some older models are sought after for their sturdy construction and classic design. A well-maintained older boat could offer great value if it’s been properly cared for.

Pro tip: Research the manufacturer and model to understand its reputation and typical resale value.

2. Condition and Maintenance: The Hidden Costs

A sailboat’s condition is one of the most critical factors affecting its price. The hull, deck, sails, rigging, and interior should all be carefully inspected. Watch out for signs of neglect, such as cracks, blistering, or mold in the cabin.

The engine’s condition is especially important. Fewer engine hours generally mean less wear and tear, but how it was maintained matters more than the hours alone. Check if a service history or recent survey is available—it can save you from nasty surprises later.

Dry storage vs. in the water: Boats stored on land during the offseason often have better-preserved hulls compared to those left in the water year-round.

3. Equipment and Upgrades: How Much Is It Worth?

First-time buyers often focus on the big picture (the boat itself), but equipment can make a big difference in price. Boats with modern electronics, autopilot, solar panels, and new sails are much more valuable than those with outdated or broken gear.

Consider the cost of upgrading an under-equipped boat. Adding or replacing navigation systems, safety gear, or sails can quickly add thousands to your budget.

Good equipment checklist: GPS chartplotter, autopilot, wind instruments, updated safety gear, and a comfortable cockpit for cruising.

4. Location, Charter History, and Taxes: What You Need to Know

Location is another factor to keep in mind. Sailboats in popular sailing areas may cost more due to higher demand. Transporting a boat from another region can add significant expenses, so a “cheaper” boat far away may not actually save you money.

Charter boats are often priced lower than privately owned ones. While they may have more hours on the engine and show more wear, they’re also regularly maintained. A charter boat could be a smart choice, depending on your budget and plans.

Finally, check the tax status. In Europe, for example, boats with VAT (Value-Added Tax) paid are more valuable. If the taxes aren’t paid, you may face a big bill later.

Buy Smart, Sail Happy

Understanding what determines a used sailboat’s price is crucial for first-time buyers. Look beyond the sticker price—think about the boat’s condition, equipment, and history. If possible, hire a professional marine surveyor to inspect the boat before you buy. A small investment can save you from unexpected repairs and headaches.

Working with an experienced yacht broker who knows the market and can help you navigate the buying process is also a good idea. A broker can assist with price negotiations, paperwork, and finding the right boat that fits your needs and budget. With the proper research and guidance, your dream sailboat could be just around the corner!

• Bavaria 42 with severe rust contamination: rust cleaning, polishing of railings, bimini and sprayhood racks, ladder, turnbuckles, cockpit table support stands, steering wheel.
• Completion time: The work was completed in 2 days (2 people worked)
• Cost: February 2024- 450€

Work done:
Broken rudder was resored, full additional coating.

Time:
4 days

Price:
1500€, December 2023

What can cause a fire?

According to statistics, a fire on a ship is an extremely rare occurrence. Experts note that they have to consider at most 80 such cases yearly. Considering that about 60 thousand yacht owners take out insurance, this is a little. However, more than four million euros are spent on compensation payments for insurance in case of fire. In contrast, the insurance compensation for damage for all other cases (combined) does not exceed 50 thousand.

The American Coast Guard keeps its own statistics, and according to its data, fires in small fleets account for 5% of all incidents that occur on a yacht. At the same time, every year, a third of sunken ships are lost due to fire on board.

The main causes of fire include passengers’ inattention, failure to comply with basic rules (for example, smoking in unauthorized places), or crew members’ negligent attitude to their duties, including careless handling of gas. The next common reason is technical problems and a lack of preventive fire prevention measures. Let’s take a closer look at what specific actions (or inactions) can lead to a fire.

What should you focus on?

Firstly, electrical wiring malfunctions cause 50% of all fires, not only at sea but also on land. Often, the cause is loose contacts that are not fixed in time, causing the wires to heat up. Loss of wiring insulation in wet conditions will result in a short circuit.

Secondly, a quarter of all fire hazards occur in the engine compartment. This is caused by the accumulation of flammable materials in a confined space at high temperatures. The main reason is engine overheating caused by poor cooling with seawater. A running motor gets very hot, parts made of plastic melt, and the insulation of wires is damaged—all this can cause a fire. Similar consequences can be caused by insufficient cooling of the exhaust pipe.

Fuel leakage occurs due to a faulty fuel line or negligence when refueling the engine. Outbreaks due to a diesel fuel leak from a boat motor account for only 10%, and 90% of fire hazards begin with a gasoline leak due to careless refueling of the dinghy engine.

Thirdly, gas cylinders are stored in confined spaces, which pose an increased danger. A liter of liquefied propane, combined with air, forms 0.25 cubic meters of an explosive “cocktail”. Propane (butane) in a liquefied state is heavier than air and can accumulate in an unventilated room, and the proportion of gas in the air of 5% or more already creates an explosive situation that can occur from an accidental spark.

Negligence and external factors

Human factors, including negligence and error, play a significant role in fires onboard yachts. Simple acts of carelessness, such as leaving cooking appliances unattended or improperly extinguishing cigarettes, can easily start a fire.

Hot weather and direct sunlight can also contribute to the risk of fires, especially when combined with other factors. Items like glasses, lenses, and glass bottles left on a teak deck can act as magnifying glasses, focusing sunlight into a concentrated beam capable of igniting nearby flammable materials. 

Avoid leaving glasses, lenses, glass bottles, or any reflective objects in direct sunlight on the deck. Store such items in shaded or enclosed areas. Regularly inspect the deck and other exposed areas for potential fire hazards.

Precautionary measures:

1. Carefully (before the start of the flight) check the integrity of the wiring, clean the contacts, and replace the wires if you notice even the slightest damage.
2. Install the temperature sensor in the exhaust pipe. Clean the pipes; their clogging often causes increased engine heating. If you suspect a coolant leak, make sure there are no defects in the hose or pipe (if found, replace it immediately).
3. Only refuel the dinghy’s engine on shore as petrol is extremely flammable. Refuel the outboard motor on deck only if absolutely necessary, strictly observing safety precautions.
4. Store gas cylinders in a locker specially designated for this purpose in the cockpit. Constantly check whether burners, gas stoves, fittings, and hoses are in working order.
5. Install simple indicators that are sensitive to gas and smoke; they will promptly signal the accumulation of gas in the room and the occurrence of smoke. You can install a modern alarm system associated with an electric start system, which will prevent the engine from starting if a certain concentration of vapors is detected.
6. Never leave cooking appliances unattended while in use. Establish designated smoking areas and provide proper disposal containers for cigarette butts.

Actions of the team in case of fire:

1. Immediately announce an emergency alert: notify the crew members and broadcast a triple “PAN” signal.
2. One person is preparing for evacuation.
3. The rest begin to localize the ignition. At the same time, the vessel should be de-energized, the oil and fuel lines should be shut off, and gas cylinders and other flammable objects should be taken to a safe distance from the source of the fire.
4. If the captain has decided to evacuate, the distress signal “MAYDAY” is broadcast, the life raft is lowered into the water, and the life buoy is activated.

Even with a seemingly insignificant fire, it is necessary to act quickly since the threat of a relatively rapid spread of fire in a confined space is too great, and you can lose control of the situation at any moment.

Use of fire extinguishing agents

Using a fire blanket (a blanket with a special impregnation), you can extinguish small fires in the galley or cabin (for example, when bed linen catches fire). The blanket covers the source of fire, stopping oxygen from reaching it. When stored, the felt takes up little space.

An automatic fire extinguishing system is useful in cases where the source of ignition is difficult to reach and sometimes impossible, such as when a fire occurs in an internal closed area. Stationary systems prevent the development of fire by using carbon dioxide or freon. The gases are safe, but when in contact with heated air, freon emits toxic substances, so after the fire extinguishing system is in operation, all rooms must be well-ventilated.

Do not try to install such a system yourself; entrust this task to specialists. During installation, they must provide for all possible situations, and if necessary, gas must flow freely to the galley, cabins, engine compartment, etc. Please note that there must be a redundancy function so that the automatic fire system can be activated manually.

Less expensive option: Place automatic fire extinguishers in areas where fires are most likely to occur, which go off when the temperature rises above a preset level.

The skipper is obliged to inform the crew and show the location of fire extinguishing equipment, conduct instructions, and organize a drill to practice actions in the event of a fire hazard. If the yacht is charter, then when accepting it, pay attention to whether the fire extinguishers have expired. Devices of different types have different service life, for example, for foam ones – no more than two years, and for powder ones – five. Upon expiration of the storage period, the fire extinguisher must be completely replaced or refilled (the chemical reagents contained inside are replaced). The replacement date is always stamped on the body; be sure to pay attention to this fact when purchasing a fire extinguisher.

Prevention is the best way to avoid a fire hazard on board a ship. The responsible attitude of all crew members to the yacht’s maintenance, regular inspection of unsafe areas, and timely elimination of minor problems will help avoid a big disaster.